Independence Day is here, that holiday we celebrate on the fourth day in July. Let us remember that event in 1776 of declaring America’s independence from being unfairly ruled from across the sea.

Please call it Independence Day (only one syllable more than “Fourth of July”) so we and our children will remember and appreciate the reason for celebrating.

Let’s fly our American flags as well as enjoying the parades, picnics and fireworks. Also let us remember those who have fought and died for us to enjoy the freedoms we have as citizens of our nation.

MARY ANNA BARKER Ontario

We are one people

On the anniversary of our nation’s independence, I would like to express my gratitude of being a Muslim born in America.

As I have grown, I have grown a particular attachment toward our country’s refusal to settle for the status quo. We seek for new horizons.

Since America’s founding, the principle that all men are created equal with the right to the pursuit of happiness has shaped our story. This truth is even more precious considering that, even today, nations across the world continue to deny these basic rights.

On the cusp of July 4, I realize how thankful I am to be in such a nation – a nation that embraces many different religions and cultures; a nation that comes together both in moments of happiness and heartache. Despite our different backgrounds we are one people. Above all, we all are all Americans.

Happy Independence Day to all.

RIZWAN JATTALA Rancho Cucamonga

Lead the world

As global population surges toward 9.1 billion people by 2050, western diets rich in meat and dairy products will become unsustainable, according to a United Nations Environment Program’s report released recently.

The report was prepared by the International Panel of Sustainable Resource Management, drawing on dozens of smaller studies. It notes that agricultural production accounts for 70 percent of global freshwater use, 38 percent of land use and 19 percent of greenhouse gas emissions.

The panel concludes that, just as fossil fuels will be gradually replaced by renewable, pollution-free energy sources like wind and solar power, meat and dairy products in the world’s diet will need to be replaced by vegetables, fruits, and grains.

Both shifts are absolutely necessary to reduce production of greenhouse gases and consumption of natural resources and to ensure planetary survival into the foreseeable future.

As Americans, we have a special obligation to lead the rest of the world in a healthful diet of vegetables, fruits, and grains – a diet designed to prevent global starvation, while protecting our natural environment and safeguarding personal health. Each of us can start with our next trip to our supermarket.

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